Mass Military Service Enrollment Announced to "Protect National Sovereignty"

In the wake of a tragic incident resulting in the deaths of nine young soldiers and four officers in Holguín, the Cuban regime has announced a large-scale enrollment for Active Military Service. Local newspaper Sierra Maestra reported that this enrollment serves as the "prelude to fulfilling military service," aiming to "initiate the process within educational institutions."

A young soldier endorsing the Active Military Service (AMS) described it as a "chance" to "defend national sovereignty through military training." He expressed pride in defending the Revolution during times of crisis. Meanwhile, a young woman viewed it as an opportunity for "self-improvement, gaining experience, confronting adversaries, and the possibility of pursuing a civilian university degree," without acknowledging the dangers of handling weapons and undergoing intensive military training.

In Santiago de Cuba, over 200 students from the José Tey Sanit-Blancard Pedagogical School were required to register their information for future enlistment as soldiers. Lieutenant Colonel Dayamí Favier Yero, second-in-command of the Provincial Military Committee, stated to the state media that individuals born in 2009 must register this year as they turn 16.

The recruitment process involves several steps, including medical examinations, recruitment commissions, and eventually calling individuals to join the Active Military Service. Additionally, young women were called to join the Voluntary Female Military Service with the incentive of accessing university education, whether through military or civilian pathways.

Registration for the AMS is mandatory for males starting at age 16. Human rights activists have repeatedly raised concerns about the conditions faced by recruits and the repercussions for those who refuse to serve. A campaign against Mandatory Military Service in Cuba has gained momentum in recent years, particularly following tragic incidents that have highlighted the risks and harsh conditions young recruits encounter.

One of the most significant catalysts for this movement was the fire at the Matanzas Supertanker Base in August 2022, where several recruits lost their lives while attempting to extinguish the blaze.